Hand-Watering Guide

Automatic irrigation systems are the standard way to water a yard these days, and they are certainly
the easiest. But don’t dismiss the power of watering by hand. Getting hands on is one of the best things you can do for your greenery for several reasons.

In a state so prone to drought, we can’t afford to waste water. Indiscriminate sprinkling often sends water to areas that don’t need it, such as sidewalks and ditches where water pools. Targeting only the plants that need watering minimizes waste and can have a positive impact on your water bill.

Plants are not one-size-fits-all. Some need to be watered more or less frequently than others; fruiting plants need much more water, for example, while very young plants with shallow roots can only take in a small amount of water at a time. Overwatering and underwatering both can be deadly to plants, and hand watering allows you to give each the ideal amount. If you don’t take time to “stop and smell the roses,” it’s easy to miss signs of distress, such as wilting, discoloration, or damage.

Hand watering is a built-in opportunity to inspect and enjoy your garden. Ready to add hand watering to your routine? Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

How to Hand Water

Leaves can technically absorb water, but they aren’t good at it. In fact, they actually emit water as a cooling mechanism. Roots are much better at taking in water. Rather than watering over the foliage, where the water has a high likelihood of evaporating or encouraging fungal growth, water the soil directly.

When hand watering, ensure you thoroughly soak the soil, wait a few minutes to allow the water to make its way down to the roots, and then test the soil’s moisture with a soil moisture meter or by gently digging in your finger. If the soil is not moist finger-deep, water a second time. If your plants are yellowing or you can see sitting water, you might be overwatering. For potted plants, stick with a surface soaking.

Visit your city or county’s official website for watering restrictions. Early morning (before sunrise) is best so the water doesn’t evaporate before it has a chance to reach the roots. Never water during the heat of the day. Evening also isn’t ideal, for the opposite reason: Excess water won’t evaporate, and soggy soil promotes lawn fungus.

Use the Right Tools

A hose with a handheld attachment to control the flow of water is a must, although a watering can works if you have only a few plants. Bare soil allows water to evaporate quickly, so lock in moisture with an inch or two of mulch. Soil-wetting agents are especially useful for potted plants to help water absorb evenly throughout the soil.

Hand watering takes extra effort, but it can help your plants thrive. A well-engineered irrigation system still has its place, especially in large lawn areas. Use both methods strategically to give your yard exactly what it needs.

Consult our guide to ensure you’re watering your lawn efficiently.